Holyrood

Today's the day ......................... to go to the Palace

Went to an interesting exhibition today in the Queen's Gallery in Holyrood Palace.

It was all about Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione (1609-64), one of the most innovative and technically brilliant Italian draftsman of his time. Castiglione worked in oils on paper to produce large, vibrant compositions, and combined drawing and printmaking to invent the technique of monotype.

Despite leading a violent and turbulent life, he produced works of grace and rare beauty, which were highly esteemed for a century after his death. But then Castiglione unaccountably fell from fame and has largely been ignored until now.

Even if the exhibition hadn't been as interesting and well presented as it was, it would have been worth going to the Palace just to see this fantastic building looking at its best on this lovely sunny day .....................